A magnificent example of the Pour le Merité in silver gilt. The piece is a Wagner produced example with the baroque loop and is marked "W" on the lower arm. The suspension 'bridge' is marked with the silver content of 800. Typically, WWI vintage awards were produced of genuine gold (early in the war) and then 938 silver, so the 800 marking would indicate a post 1918 made piece. However, it was made by Wagner based on the eagles, lettering, overall shape, and baroque loop or bridge details. The details are superb, and equal to those produced prior to 1918, with the eagles being hand finished and separately attached, thin convex glass enameling in the medium blue color, and finely finished loop. The eagles' breast feathers have been hand detailed, which was typical of the examples sold in the 1920s and 30s. The condition is excellent, showing handling and age but no chipping or problems. The ribbon is black watered silk with silver woven stripes, and the suspension loop is gilt. If you don't want to spend $25,000.00 plus for a WWI produced piece, this may be for you! Made just a few years later, it is a jewel!